FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions? We've got answers. If you don't see what you're looking for here, reach out via our contact form or email us at info@smartcatgifts.com -- we're here to help.

About Smart Cat Gifts

What is Smart Cat Gifts?

Smart Cat Gifts is a made-to-order cat-themed shop creating design-forward apparel, drinkware, and home goods for cat lovers and cat parents who want quality and personality. Founded in memory of Myrna, a rescued street Calico, the shop celebrates the real bond between cats and their humans -- without generic puns or mass-produced filler.

Why was Smart Cat Gifts created?

The founder rescued a street Calico named Myrna in Brooklyn, New York. After she passed, the desire to honor that bond -- and create something meaningful for other cat lovers and cat parents -- became the driving force behind the shop. Read the full story on our blog: [How a Street Cat Named Myrna Changed Everything].

What's the story behind Smart Cat Gifts?

Smart Cat Gifts was inspired by Myrna, our beloved Calico. We took her in off the streets, and within a week, she had completely stolen our hearts. Though Myrna was with us for only three short years, her playful spirit and unconditional love inspired us to create a shop that celebrates the bond between cats and their humans.

Our mission: Turn the everyday wonder of cat companionship into wearable joy, shareable moments, and designs that celebrate the love between cats and their humans.

Gifts & Shopping

What are the best cat gifts for someone who has everything?

Look for design-forward products with real personality -- bold sneakers, quality apparel, or home goods that reflect actual cat parent life. Smart Cat Gifts focuses on humor, quality materials, and modern design.

Where can I find cat-themed gifts that aren't generic?

Smart Cat Gifts is a made-to-order cat-themed shop with collections ranging from heartfelt designs to sarcastic humor to vintage collegiate styles. No generic puns, no mass-produced filler.

How much should I spend on a cat lover gift?

Quality cat-themed gifts range from $20 to $100. Mugs start around $20, tees $25-$35, hoodies and sweatshirts $45-$80, and sneakers or flannels $65-$100. Free shipping on orders over $50 at Smart Cat Gifts.

What makes made-to-order better than mass-produced cat gifts?

Every item is produced only after a customer orders it -- no overproduction and no unsold inventory sitting in warehouses. It also allows for creative, niche designs mass-market retailers can't offer.

Orders & Shipping

How long does Smart Cat Gifts shipping take?

Most orders ship within 7-12 business days. Because each item is made-to-order just for you, we need a few days to create your product before it heads your way. Some items (like sneakers or aprons) ship from overseas and may take the full 10-12 business days. We promise it's worth the wait.

Free shipping on orders $50+. For orders under $50, shipping starts at a flat rate of $4.95.

Does Smart Cat Gifts ship internationally?

Right now, we only ship within the United States. International shipping isn't available yet, but it's on our roadmap. Follow us on Instagram @smartcatgifts or keep an eye on your inbox for updates on when we expand.

Will I get tracking information?

Absolutely. You'll receive a confirmation email right after placing your order. Once your order ships, you'll get a second email with tracking details. Please allow up to 24 hours for tracking info to update in the carrier's system.

Can I change or cancel my order after placing it?

Because we start creating your custom order as soon as you hit "Place Order," we can't make changes or cancellations once it's submitted. Double-check your cart before checking out -- your future self will thank you.

My tracking says "Label Created" but hasn't moved. What's going on?

This is totally normal. Once we create your item, we generate a shipping label, which can take 24-48 hours to show movement in the carrier's system. If it's been longer than that and you're worried, reach out and we'll look into it.

Does Smart Cat Gifts offer package protection?

Yes. At checkout, you'll see an option to add Guide Package Protection to your order. It covers lost, damaged, and stolen packages. If something goes wrong, you can file a claim directly through Guide and receive a refund or replacement. The cost depends on your order total.

Returns & Exchanges

What is Smart Cat Gifts' return policy?

Because every item is custom-made just for you, we don't accept returns or exchanges unless there's a defect or error on our end (incorrect size shipped, damaged item, printing mistake, etc.).

If something's not right, contact us within 7 days of delivery with photos of the issue, and we'll make it right -- either with a replacement or refund.

View our full Refund Policy for details.

What if my item arrives damaged or defective?

We're so sorry that happened. Reach out to us within 7 days of delivery with:

Your order number
Photos of the damaged/defective item
A brief description of the issue

We'll review it ASAP and send a replacement or issue a refund. Quality matters to us -- we'll take care of you.

What if I ordered the wrong size?

We get it -- sizing can be tricky. Unfortunately, because items are custom-made, we can't exchange sizes unless there was an error on our end. Most of our apparel products include a size chart on the product page, and every product includes detailed sizing guidance in the Comfort & Fit section. Always check before ordering.

Sizing & Fit

How do I know what size to order from Smart Cat Gifts?

Most of our apparel products (tees, hoodies, sweatshirts, flannels, tanks) include a size chart directly on the product page. For products without a size chart -- like sneakers, mugs, clocks, phone cases, and select accessories -- check the Comfort & Fit section for detailed sizing and fit guidance.

Pro tip: If you're between sizes or unsure, we recommend sizing up for a more relaxed fit -- especially for hoodies and sweatshirts.

Do Smart Cat Gifts products run true to size?

Generally, yes. However, some items may run small, and if that's the case, we note it in the Comfort & Fit section on the product page. Always check sizing info before ordering.

What if I'm still unsure about sizing?

Reach out -- we're happy to help you find the right fit. Email us at info@smartcatgifts.com or use our [contact form] with details about the product and your measurements, and we'll guide you.

Product Care

How do I care for Smart Cat Gifts products?

Each product page includes specific care instructions in the Easy Care section. Here are the general guidelines:

Apparel (Tees, Hoodies, Sweatshirts):

Machine wash cold, inside out
Tumble dry low or hang dry
Avoid bleach
Iron on low if needed (avoid direct contact with print)

Mugs & Drinkware:

Hand wash recommended for longevity
Some items are dishwasher-safe (check product page)
Avoid microwaving unless specified as microwave-safe

Sneakers:

Spot clean with damp cloth and mild soap
Hand wash gently if needed
Air dry only

Accessories (Totes, Phone Cases, Hats):

Spot clean or hand wash
Air dry

For detailed care info, always check the Easy Care section on the product page before washing.

About Our Products

Are Smart Cat Gifts products really made-to-order?

Every item is printed and created after you place your order. That means no mass production, no excess inventory sitting in warehouses, and each piece is made just for you. It takes a bit longer than big-box retailers, but it ensures quality and reduces waste.

Why does Smart Cat Gifts take 7-12 days to ship?

Because we don't keep pre-made inventory. Once you order, we:

Print your design on the product
Quality check to make sure it's right
Package and ship it to you

This process takes 3-5 days for production, plus 4-7 days for shipping.

Does Smart Cat Gifts offer personalized products?

We offer personalization on select products. Check product pages for personalization options. We're always adding more personalized items -- follow us on Instagram [@smartcatgifts] for updates on new releases.

Can I request a custom design?

Not yet, but we're open to it in the future. For now, browse our collections -- we're constantly adding new designs. If there's something specific you'd love to see, reach out and let us know. We listen to our community.

Does Smart Cat Gifts offer bulk or wholesale orders?

We're open to bulk orders for special occasions (events, gifts, etc.). Just reach out via our [contact form] or email info@smartcatgifts.com, and we'll work with you on pricing and timing.

Wholesale isn't available yet, but it's on our radar. Stay connected for updates.

Payments & Security

What payment methods does Smart Cat Gifts accept?

We accept:

Credit/Debit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover)
PayPal
Apple Pay
Google Pay
Shop Pay

All payments are processed securely through Shopify.

Is my payment information safe?

Absolutely. We use Shopify's secure payment gateway, which is PCI-DSS compliant and encrypts your payment info. We never see or store your credit card details -- it's all handled securely by Shopify.

For more info, check our Privacy Policy.

Does Smart Cat Gifts offer discounts or promo codes?

Yes. Sign up for our email list to get 10% off your first order plus exclusive deals. We also run occasional promotions -- follow us on Instagram [@smartcatgifts] to stay in the loop.

Current offers:

10% off first order (sign up for emails)
Free shipping on orders $50+
Spend $75, get 15% off (use code CATHAUL15 at checkout)

Please note that discount codes can't be combined -- only one code per order.

Contact & Support

How do I contact Smart Cat Gifts customer support?

We're here to help. Reach out via:

Email: info@smartcatgifts.com
Contact Form: smartcatgifts.com/pages/contact

We respond within 24-48 hours (usually faster). If you have an urgent issue, mention it in your message and we'll prioritize it.

I have a question that's not answered here. What do I do?

No problem. Reach out via email or our contact form, and we'll get back to you. We're a small, cat-loving team, and we're always happy to help.

Can I leave feedback or suggest new designs?

Yes, please. We love hearing from our community. Email us, DM us on Instagram [@smartcatgifts], or leave a review on a product page. Your feedback helps us grow and create products you'll actually love.

Still have questions? Reach out -- we're here to help.